10 Things I Learned Since Being in College

College can be a tumultuous time in one’s life. Leaving home, moving to a new town, and managing things on your own can be frightening. In the past three years, I’ve made so many mistakes. I’ve also learned from the mistakes of others. Here’s what I’ve learned since being in college:

Save Your Syllabus

Your syllabus is like your golden ticket to the Willy Wonka Factory. Seriously. It’s that important. In your syllabus, professors will include information like office hours, dates of tests, and even dates when classes may be cancelled. Some professors even include what information will be covered on that particular day. Trust me guys, it’s vital.

Network, Network, Network

Getting your name out there is so important. Especially once you get close to the end of your college career. So when you meet people, try to put your best face forward. You never know who you may meet. A simple conversation could turn into an opportunity.

The Friends You Make will Probably be Your Lifelong Friends

When looking back on my high school experience, I could honestly say that I was only friends with people because I had to see them every day (with the exception of a few, of course:). In college, not only will you attend class with your friends, but you’ll probably live with them too. You will have the chance to vibe with your friends on a deeper level because all of you are embarking on a new life journey together. Don’t get me wrong, it’s important to hold on to your friends from home, but also be open to the new people that may come into your life.

Shadow, Intern

This goes with the Networking tip. Job shadowing, or holding an internship is another way to network. However, it is also a good way to get experience in your field. My first blog post was about me having a change in my career aspirations. This change was due to an experience I had in my field at the time. A lot of people come to college wanting to pursue one career, but finish with totally different career plans. Don’t worry if this happens to you. Utilize your sources on campus. Don’t be afraid to talk to a Career Services Counselor. They can find internships and shadowing opportunities for you so you can figure out your niche.

Chances are, if you’re going through it, everyone else is too

Social Media can convince you that everyone has it all together, but in reality, they don’t. A lot of people tend to post things about their accomplishments, but they refrain from posting about the hard work it took to get there. Everyone has a season, so don’t beat yourself up if things aren’t going the way you would want them to. I had to learn this the hard way.

Review your notes after each class really works

This. You don’t understand how important this lesson is. In college, your professors tend to cram a lot of information in one lecture. In high school, it was okay to wait until the week of the test, or even a few days before to study. Not in college. It’s important that you constantly study and review information because you are learning new material every class period.

Utilize Office Hours

In high school, all of your teachers were pretty accessible. In college, not so much. Office hours are times set aside by your professor to meet with students. If you have questions about the material that was taught in your last lecture, go to your professor’s office hours. This should probably be a separate tip, but please don’t hesitate to ask for help. Some people make college out to be an intimidating experience, but your professors are really there to help you.

Communication is Key

I can’t stress this enough. Please communicate. No one can read your mind, so if you are struggling, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your professors can’t help you if you never speak up. If you are having an issue with a roommate or a friend, politely try to talk it out. Don’t write notes, and don’t assume that people can read your minds. Trust me, when it comes to working out conflict, how you communicate will determine how well you overcome the conflict. When dealing with dorm issues, try to talk to your roommate as soon as possible…in the most calm and polite way as possible. Don’t hold it in, try to discuss it as soon as possible.

Get Involved

There are so many different ways to get involved in college. You can run for a student government position, become a campus queen, join a sorority or fraternity, or a service club. You can even become an orientation leader. The good thing about college is that there is something for everyone. Being involved on campus is a good way to meet new people, but it also looks good on your resume’. Don’t be shy, guys, jump outside of your comfort zone and find an organization that fits you!

Have Fun…but be safe, of course

Last but not least, have fun. I’ve always said that college was your last chance before becoming a full-time adult. So make the most of it. Four years will sound like a long time, but it’s not. College will go by so fast. So while you’re getting your education, make some memories.

What have you learned since being in college? Did you become a campus queen, or join any clubs or organizations? If so, comment below. Thanks for reading:)